Episode 201 - Over the Fence: Celebrating 200 Episodes with Kevin Means

Welcome to The Hangar Z Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS ! In this landmark two-part series celebrating our 200th episode, hosts Jack Schonely and Jon Gray have the honor of welcoming Kevin Means, a legendary figure in law enforcement aviation, and the familiar voice you hear at the beginning of every episode of The Hangar Z Podcast. This special series dives deep into Kevin's unforgettable, “Don't go over that fence,”incident, illuminating its significant impact on public safety. Join us as we explore the evolution of tactical flight officer (TFO) training and the remarkable journey that led Kevin from a curious childhood to becoming a respected police officer. Together, they discuss the unique dynamics of the San Diego Police Department, addressing the challenges faced by law enforcement in the region, including the infamous San Diego tank chase and the transformative advancements in air support and technology in policing. Kevin talks about the early part of his career where he reflects on working patrol, and the infamous Border Crime Suppression Team written about in the book Lines and Shadows by Joseph Wambaugh. We discuss the importance of crew resource management in aviation. Kevin shares his perspectives on the media’s portrayals of law enforcement and the changing public perceptions of police work. With his extensive experience, Kevin highlights the critical importance of communication, training, and leadership in the field. He discusses the founding of the company Tactical Flying, as well as his role in mentoring the next generation of aviators. As we approach the conclusion, Kevin reflects on his retirement and his ongoing commitment to education and mentorship within aviation. Join us for this monumental series as we look back on the journey of law enforcement aviation and forward to the future our industry. Tune in and help us celebrate 200 episodes of the Hangar Z Podcast! Thank you to our sponsors Dallas Avionics , Robinson Helicopter Company and Spectrum Aeromed .